alliance alliance /əˈlaɪəns/

noun

1. The act of forming an alliance or confederation  ( alliance , confederation )
   the act of forming an alliance or confederation
   
2. A formal agreement establishing an association or alliance between nations or other groups to achieve a particular aim  ( alliance )
   a formal agreement establishing an association or alliance between nations or other groups to achieve a particular aim
   
3. An organization of people (or countries) involved in a pact or treaty  ( alinement [Non-standard] , alliance , coalition , alignment )
   an organization of people (or countries) involved in a pact or treaty
    Several countries formed an alignment to promote trade and mutual interests.
   Several countries formed an alignment to promote trade and mutual interests.
   
   
4. A connection based on kinship, marriage or common interest  ( alliance , bond )
   a connection based on kinship, marriage or common interest
    The shifting alliances within a large family
   the shifting alliances within a large family
    Their friendship constitutes a powerful bond between them
   their friendship constitutes a powerful bond between them
   
5. The state of being allied or confederated  ( alliance , confederation )
   the state of being allied or confederated